Memorial Day Weekend Raft-Up

NSHSA began the 2009 sailing season in regal fashion.   A steady 10-13 knot SE wind on Saturday allowed many of our members to sail directly to Maryland Yacht Club on Rock Creek, joining other members who had arrived on Friday.   Fifteen boats were in attendance– Adventure Bound, Big E Nuf, Carpe Ventum, Champagne, Fortune Hunter, Hat Trick, Jo-Lin-Dy, Narsilion, Padozary, Penury’s Prize, Sena ‘Nuff, Sly Fox, Tomorrow Came, Windsprint and Xtasea.  The festivities started with a happy hour on Saturday to welcome the new season with shared appetizers. 

Sunday brought the coveted Hunter Cup Race, with four serious sailors – Carpe Ventum, Champagne, Jo-Lin-Dy and Tomorrow Came - battling it out to the finish line.  Carpe Ventum easily crossed the finish line ahead of the competition – no surprise there! – followed by Jo-Lin-Dy.  Tomorrow Came and Champagne had some good-natured fun on the course as each one tried to “out-tack” the other, but Tomorrow Came pulled ahead on the last leg and crossed the finish line slightly ahead of Champagne. 

Most entertaining for those on shore was the boat that plowed “full sail ahead” into the sand bar immediately after crossing the finish line (you know who you are!).   The committee boat, Sena ‘Nuff, offered to send help - but only after inquiring what the grounded boat’s contribution to the evening dinner would be!   

Meanwhile, the non-racers partook in various land-based activities.  Tom from Narsilion and Mike from Big E Nuf wore out the kids playing catch with the baseball!  Between the beach, pool, volleyball and kayaks, the kids (big and little) were entertained all weekend long.

.

Sunday evening’s celebration began with roll call, results of the race and a Memorial Day remembrance by Jarvis of Sly Fox.  All enjoyed the hamburgers, hotdogs and Italian sausages provided by the club along with delicious salads, side dishes and desserts provided by the members.   Thanks to Aquila, Windsprint and Adventure Bound for all of the supplies, and to the many chefs that helped with the grilling! 

Monday morning brought early morning departures and little or no wind.  Threats of storms had lingered over the weekend, but were held at bay.  Instead, conversation, fun and laughter – by both the adults and kids in attendance – were the order of the weekend! 

Until the next raft-up,
Paul and Dottie
S/V Padozary